“There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart.” – Celia Thaxter

It was a blessing spending time with dear friends the Cusacks on a perfect Sunday afternoon in the country, nestled between the breathtaking Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River. The essence of country living is how you live, and this family lives, laughs and loves with a rugged tenderness that fills the soul brimful. Knowing how much this young trio does for others, this was my chance to capture them alone with each other – where hugs are harder, laughter is louder, smiles are bigger and the love is forever.

Combing Lighthouse Drive, we slowly stepped in and out of the late-day’s speckled light.

Scanning the Esopus from the docks, the steel blue creek flickered around us as if the words of Celia Thaxter herself glinted across the water like Morse code.

With gratitude warming the heart on this perfect summer afternoon, we weaved in and out of the shoals surrounding the Saugerties Lighthouse.

Eventually, we let the slow-setting nautical sun lead us home on its terms.

The gust of excitement had me bursting my heartstrings when Angie asked me to capture this special time in their life. This was their very first time doing a family session and there were clear signs that once-little Quentin is growing up fast. These times are so precious; youth is fleeting.

Thank you Cusacks for a lovely afternoon, and for allowing me to share your joy and happiness! What a beautiful family!